SHOW THE WORLD ∴ YOUR BEST SELF ∴ THIS WEEKEND!
Calling all “Gym Rats,” “Weekend Warriors,” Pilates’ devotees. You know who you are…you’re planning to run for miles, ride your bike (straight uphill), take 2 spin classes back to back and then pump iron. And let’s not forget hot yoga, barre and insanity workouts. Your FREESPACES’ friend gets it. Your body is your temple and who doesn’t feel better when those cardio-induced endorphins kick in? It’s worth the pain. And more importantly we know that exercise not only improves our waistline but lowers blood pressure and stress. It’s just darn good for us.
And if you’re not a big fan of sore muscles, maybe you’ve pledged to cut carbs and say adios to sugar to drop those last ten pounds once and for all. We rightly equate being in shape with better physical and mental health. While such devotion to get and stay in shape is to be commended, FREESPACES also lays down a personal ORGANIZING challenge: “What are you doing this weekend to get YOUR SPACE in shape”?
Believe it or not, whipping your personal and work space into shape can be just as important to your well-being as taking that 5 mile jog. So, put that down that protein shake and read on!
Studies, such as this one referenced in a January 29, 2015 SHAPE magazine post, found that people who worked in a neat space for 10 minutes were twice as likely to choose an apple over a chocolate bar than those who worked in a messy office for the same amount of time, found a study in the journal Psychological Science. “Clutter is stressful for the brain, so you’re more likely to resort to coping mechanisms such as choosing comfort foods or overeating than if you spend time in neater surroundings,” Dr. Selhub says.
So if you’re focused on getting your body in shape and want to fully reap the benefits, then set some organizing goals and get moving. Reduce by eliminating what you do not need in closets, cupboards, filing cabinets, kids’ rooms. Reorganize and systematize what remains. Repeat this exercise wherever you have a pain point. And then reap the rewards: You’ll instantly feel more energized and 5 pounds lighter.
For some, trying to clear the decks and free your spaces can be a daunting task — rather like trying to lift more than your body weight! Try to look at it like training for a marathon. You’re not going to run 26.2 miles the first time out. You do a little each day, working up to the big day. Try to tackle disorganization the same way. Start small — take baby steps. Don’t try to do it all at once (that’s what professional organizers are for!).
There are countless strategies to help you. One strategy FREESPACES likes is the “one and get it done” approach. Laser focus on one realistic task — perhaps it’s your kitchen junk drawer or filing cabinet. Focus on that one task and get it done. Then move onto the next and get it done. Repeat and repeat…Make it bite size so you can get the job done and feel a sense of accomplishment.
Again, professional organizers, like a personal trainer, can help kickstart your effort and get your home or office in shape in no time. With too much stuff and never enough time, hiring a professional might be a good option for you. That’s really up to you.
But when you’re thinking about what you’re going to do this weekend to get in shape and reduce life’s stressors, don’t forget to give your home a workout too! Not only will your physical and mental health get a boost, but you’ll find that an organized home or office will give you more free time to try to set those Olympic records!